Stronger memory: experiences of older adults and caregivers in an intervention program for cognitive performance

Abstract Subjective cognitive decline (SCD), defined as self-reported memory issues that have worsened over the past year, can be one of the first indications of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. SCD affects nearly 9% of Virginians aged 45 or older, and 31% of these individuals live alone. A practice-based intervention is essential to addressing the challenges associated with cognitive impairment. This study examined the effect of StrongerMemory program, which involves a series of cognitive exercises. The StrongerMemory program provides a 12-week curriculum designed to stimulate the brain’s prefrontal cortex, which governs the ability to retrieve memories. Participants are encouraged to spend 20 to 30 minutes a day reading aloud, writing or journaling and completing simple math problems. The Mason Gerontology Research Team investigated the pre- and post-cognitive outcomes among 43 participants who participated in the StrongerMemory program to determine the effectiveness of the program. The cognitive outcomes were evaluated using the Mini Montreal Cognitive Assessment 2.1 (Mini MoCA). The mean (SD) scores in Mini MoCA evaluated in the participants were 12.60 ± 2.1 (pre-test) and 13.53 ± 1.9 (post-test). The mean difference was statistically significant. Our results indicate that the StrongerMemory program is beneficial for cognition. The premise around the StrongerMemory program is that prior to a diagnosis or even with a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment, a decline can be slowed and possibly prevented by participating in a program like StrongerMemory. The Mason Gerontology Research Team continues to evaluate the StrongerMemory program to examine its impact on SCD.